Four-week, dedicated bus lane pilot to begin Monday, May 7, in Roslindale

A two-day bus lane operational test, successfully implemented at this location in December 2017, helped the City and the MBTA to strategize for the upcoming pilot program.

“The City of Boston is committed to testing designated bus lanes as part of the Go Boston 2030 transportation plan,” said Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh. "I am looking forward to reviewing the successful completion of testing on the exclusive bus lane on Washington Street from Roslindale Village to Forest Hills Station.  I am hopeful that the designated bus lane proves to be an initiative that makes a positive contribution to the community while simultaneously reducing the commute time for MBTA riders from Roslindale and the surrounding area.”

The inbound, curbside lane of Washington Street, between Roslindale Village and Forest Hills Station, will be prioritized for MBTA and school buses weekdays from 5 AM to 9 AM, with bicyclists allowed to use the lane as well.  Parking will not be permitted on the inbound stretch of the roadway during the hours that the bus lane is in effect, but general motor vehicle traffic will be maintained via full use of one travel lane inbound.  Current travel patterns and parking availability on Washington Street outbound will remain in place.

“We will be keeping a close eye on Washington Street over the next month to measure the effects of the designated bus lane on overall travel along the corridor,” said Boston Transportation Commissioner Gina N. Fiandaca.  “We encourage Roslindale residents, local business representatives, bus riders, cyclists, motorists and pedestrians who regularly travel this route in the early morning hours to provide feedback on their experiences.”

Each day that the pilot program is in effect, traffic cones will be placed as necessary along the impacted stretch of Washington Street to delineate the bus lane from the general traffic lane and removed from the roadway at 9 AM.  In addition, flyers will be distributed in the neighborhood and appropriate signage will be posted along the route.  City of Boston and MBTA personnel will work to ensure safe and equitable travel along Washington Street for the duration of the pilot program.

Please email comments to: BTD@boston.gov.